In the days since the storm passed through, we have seen distraught neighbors being helped by family members, friends, even perfect strangers. The sight of destroyed homes, downed power lines and flooded streets is enough to bring tears to anyone's eyes.

However, despite all the despair, there is a silver lining: We're witnessing incredible kindness and caring on the part of helpful organizations and everyday people. Here is a chance to teach children how good it feels to help others.

According to www.familyeducation.com, "However modest your child's donations, getting into the giving habit is a sound financial management principal for your child."

The site details that your child will gain positive giving and saving habits as he or she gets older. "For now, though, she'll be rewarded in other ways – satisfaction in helping others and learning to put off her own needs in favor of someone else," says the website.

As Staten Island continues to recuperate from one of the worst storms in a century, here are some local organizations to which you and your family can offer your time, donations and money.

* The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation has established an account earmarked solely for Staten Island hurricane relief. The organization, which is named after the dedicated Staten Island firefighter who gave up a golf date with family to help his fellow first responders at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001 but never made it out, has set up a bank where funds will help families displaced by the recent storm.

* Many residents, who had to leave their homes and have been forced into local shelters, are simply living with the clothes on their backs. Donations of pillows, blankets, canned soup and comfortable clothing like sweat pants, are desperately needed at local shelters like the Michael J. Petrides elementary school in Sunnyside. The school is located at 715 Ocean Terrace, 718-815-0186. * Our furry and feathered family members have had to endure great challenges throughout this trying time and many of our pets are also displaced. They, too, need additional support and donations. Richmond Valley Veterinary, located at 4915 Arthur Kill Rd., Tottenville, is accepting donations for any type of pet – food, toys, beds, bowls or blankets. Do not bring pet medications. Call 718-948-3331, for more information.

* Senior citizens and those who need additional help are often affected more by natural disasters, unable to help themselves – and sometimes unable even to call for help. Senior centers, like the Silver Lake Specialized Care Center, were affected by the storm and could use help from the community to keep residents safe and well. A simple visit to the facility can brighten the day of a senior who has not been able to leave since last week. Call Community Agency for Senior Citizens for a list of senior centers that could use some support. The phone number is 718-981-6226.